Village Homes Realty
Building Update – May 2022
Here are a few stats for the number lovers among you:
- 22 homes completed
- 39 homes under construction
- 25 homes in various stages of approval (5 of these are in Stages 3A and 3B)
- Ecovillage homes averaging NatHERS 8.2 stars out of 10 for thermal efficiency
This outcome supports our decision to move the minimum requirement to 8 stars for Stages 3 – 5. We encourage all homeowners to pursue the highest possible sustainability standards in each home design.
Community Sheds
Our delightful Jarrah-clad community sheds in Stages 1A, 1B and 1C are now complete. They look so good that we’ve had requests from some buyers as to whether they could live in them or use the plans to use for their own little homes! At completion of the landscaping works in each community garden, these buildings will be handed over to each cluster strata council for ongoing management and use.
The builder of the sheds, Homes by Nature, has experienced delays with material supplies and labour shortage. However, Stages 2A and 2B are reaching completion as are those in Stages 3A and 3B. We now expect handover by the end of May.
As previously outlined, each shed is designed to cater for small meetings, workshops and gardening projects as well as provide a venue for community social gatherings and celebrations. A kitchenette and toilet facilities are included with the architectural scale and materials designed to complement the landscaped surrounds.
Public Realm Buildings
Construction of the Community Centre is progressing on schedule with roof framing now giving an impression of the scale of this facility within the built landscape.
Design studies for the short stay tourism lots within the Village Centre have been completed and are currently with selected builders for tender pricing. Within convenient walking distance of the Witchcliffe main street, the proposed pub, Food Hub and other village amenities, these properties are an attractive option for those who wish to enjoy the Ecovillage lifestyle for short periods, as well as generate an income. Once a fixed price for the dwelling, rainwater tanks, Tesla powerwall, landscaping and fencing is established, these properties will be marketed for sale.
Development controls (LDPs) for the commercial precinct have been approved by the AMR Shire and building typologies have been established to complement and enhance the existing Witchcliffe village, and promote sustainable outcomes aligned to the residential elements of the Ecovillage.
Longer term planning for a pub, backpacker accommodation, commercial outlets and other residential opportunities is also underway.
